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Teen designer Dhillan set to make his first million at 18 [Derby Evening Telegraph (England)]

(Derby Evening Telegraph (England) Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) THE business of fashion designer Dhillan Bhardwaj is poised to pass the million pound mark, less than five months after he opened his first shop.

The 18-year-old from Long Eaton already had a successful online store before he opened his first bricks-and-mortar shop in March. The business - Ratchet Clothing - sells a wide range of tie-dye print and urban clothing.

And Dhillan is now in negotiation with a major shopping centre business to establish a series of "pop-up" shops across its UK centres.

Before opening his shop in Wilsthorpe Road, Long Eaton, Dhillan reported he was taking home a "six-figure" sum.

Now he has revealed his business is set to reach Pounds 1million turnover, with plans to create more jobs. It currently has 15 employees. The shop is set to expand even further, with two separate Pounds 200,000 orders of new stock.

Dhillan, who began making clothes at home shortly after he left school, said the pace of success had been dizzying.

"I got to meet Miley Cyrus and went for a meeting with the Prime Minister. It was a huge surprise."
Dhillan was invited to a Cyrus concert after word of his designs reached the pop superstar. The pair were pictured together backstage wearing a design incorporating the singer's portrait. He was also invited earlier this year by Erewash MP Jessica Lee to meet David Cameron at Number 10 Downing Street.

Dhillan added: "My favourite part has probably been meeting Miley." In addition, Dhillan's celebrity has sky-rocketed, with fans coming from across the country just to see him in the flesh.

Following the success of the new shop, local schools, including Wilsthorpe Community and Long Eaton, have invited Dhillan to give talks to their students.

Dhillan's dad, Binder, 46, said: "The best part of what's happened so far is how far we've managed to help others throughout our journey, whether employing people or talking to schools."
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"So far it has been great, it's moving really quickly. I'm meeting loads of people." DHILLAN BHARDWAJ
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